The South African group Singita, specialized in eco and luxury tourism in Africa, announced its intention to invest USD 102 million (MZN 6.5 billion) in a tourism project on Santa Carolina Island, in Inhambane province, reported Lusa citing a company statement. The development will feature 60 beds and will be implemented as a public-private partnership with the National Tourism Institute (INATUR).
“The Singita group will invest USD 102 million in the development of the tourism project on Santa Carolina Island, in a public-private partnership with INATUR, which holds the concession for tourism exploitation and development of the island,” stated Richard Baulene, representative of the South African group.
According to Baulene, the Mozambican State will not contribute any funds to the project, participating only through the concession to operate the enterprise for 25 years in Inhambane province.
In the proposal, Singita revealed it will invest USD 60 million (MZN 3.8 billion) in the 60-bed development on the island and USD 42 million (MZN 2.7 billion) in additional projects within the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, near the region.
The investment will be carried out with the company’s own capital over five years, increasing luxury tourism capacity in the province by 145 beds and creating 240 direct and 260 indirect jobs, according to the group’s document. The project is described as “appropriately structured for high-end eco and sustainable tourism projects,” enhancing the surrounding region while preserving natural elements, including programs for coral reef, mangrove, and seagrass restoration.
The group also plans to establish a marine research center in Vilankulo, also in Inhambane, to support community conservation initiatives, marine monitoring and research, and environmental education and awareness activities, contributing to local tourism development and job creation.
INATUR has already awarded the project to Singita, which operates 19 establishments across four African countries. The Mozambican Government approved a resolution in July granting INATUR the right to develop and negotiate tourism projects on Santa Carolina, after a previous concession was canceled due to lack of interventions.
Today, the Singita Group is a leading reference in sustainable luxury tourism in Africa, combining unique ecotourism experiences with a deep commitment to environmental conservation. Founded in 1993 from a family property acquired in 1925, the group is headquartered in South Africa and currently operates 19 lodges, villas, and camps across South Africa, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe.
Singita’s philosophy is based on the idea that tourism can be an active force for preservation. The word “Singita,” meaning “Place of Miracles” in the Shangaan language, reflects this vision. The company combines luxury and exclusivity with a sustainable management model focused on protecting vast natural areas, promoting biodiversity, and involving local communities. Distinctive experiences include safaris in private reserves, mountain gorilla observation in Rwanda, and eco-luxurious stays in untouched environments.
Source: Diário Económico
